Teo Nie Ching: RM300m smart city project to transform Kota Kinabalu by 2028

Kota Kinabalu is set to undergo a major transformation into a smart city, with an investment of approximately RM300 million, according to Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. The project, slated for completion by February 2028, aims to improve urban management, public safety, and service delivery through various technological advancements.

Teo revealed that the Kota Kinabalu Smart City Project, launched on August 6, is a collaborative effort between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK), utilizing Universal Service Provision (USP) funds.

The implementation of the project involves the development of fibre-optic and public Wi-Fi networks, spanning 50 kilometers of backbone network and 308 kilometers of last-mile network. A significant part of the project includes the installation of 822 smart poles and multi-purpose poles, alongside the establishment of a Network Operations Command Centre (NOCC).

Teo explained that the NOCC, housed in the former Kota Kinabalu Magistrates' Court building, would become a hub for real-time data collection, enabling DBKK to make more accurate and timely decisions regarding urban management and service delivery.

In addition to smart infrastructure, the project will enhance public Wi-Fi facilities, supporting local businesses and generating new economic opportunities for the community. MCMC will cover the operating costs of the smart city infrastructure for five years following the two-year development period before transferring the facility to DBKK.

Kota Kinabalu MP Datuk Chan Foong Hin praised the project for its role in transforming Sabah's state capital into a modern, safe, and competitive smart city, emphasizing the significance of repurposing the heritage building.